When you have a toothache, it can be hard to believe that so much discomfort can come from such a small thing. However, it is an unfortunate reality. Because toothaches are fairly common, people sometimes don’t think twice about them. They simply take a painkiller and move on. However, the pain from a toothache may be communicating an important message. If you ignore this message, you may compromise your oral health. The causes of toothaches vary widely. However, they sometimes point to oral health problems that need treatment. Your Dallas dentist, Dr. Diep Truong, discusses several causes of toothaches and what they can mean for your oral health.
Causes of Toothaches
- A toothache can be the result of tooth decay. If untreated, tooth decay can compromise the structural integrity of a tooth and lead to an infection capable of spreading to other teeth and throughout the body. If your tooth is discolored or if the toothache persists, seek dental assistance.
- A fractured tooth can also be the cause of a toothache. Fractured, chipped, or cracked teeth are at risk of developing infection. In addition, they damage the aesthetic appeal of your smile. If you notice structural damage to your tooth, contact your Dallas dentist. Dr. Truong offers cosmetic and restorative treatments that can repair your tooth and restore your smile.
- Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can be another source of a toothache. If your jaw also hurts, or if it clicks or pops when you open and close your mouth, you may be grinding your teeth during the night. If untreated, you may develop a TMJ disorder or damage your teeth. If your grind your teeth, Dr. Truong may prescribe a sleep guard to protect your teeth and reposition your jaw to relieve strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the joint that controls the opening and closing of the mouth.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Dallas Dentist
If you have a persistent toothache, don’t ignore it. Schedule an appointment with your Dallas dentist, Dr. Truong, today by calling 972-437-6000. Patients can also make an appointment with our West Dallas dentist office, near Cockrell Hill, Irving, and Grand Prairie at (214) 337-7800. We are proud to serve patients in the 75211 and 75080 zip codes, and surrounding neighborhoods.
